Overview & Reviews

Early in the 21st century, Jaguar and then parent company Ford decided to expand the reach of this historically upper-crust British automotive marque. On the surface, the Jaguar X-Type sedan represented a revolutionary step for the brand when it debuted for the 2002 model year. Not only was it compact in size and comparatively affordable, it featured all-wheel drive -- a fact that also set it apart from most German and Japanese competitors in the entry-level luxury sedan segment.

Alas, the Jaguar X-Type's engineering underneath wasn't as newsworthy. The basic steel structure of the car and many of its drivetrain and suspension components were shared with the Ford Mondeo, a regular family sedan sold in Europe. Though car companies with regular and upscale brands frequently cross-pollinate hardware, the X-Type's plebian roots were always too apparent. Even when it was fresh on the market, the compact Jag was hard-pressed to compete with most rivals in terms of both driving dynamics and cabin furnishings. Consequently, the X-Type was relegated to bottom-feeder status in a highly competitive segment full of younger, quicker cars until it was discontinued for 2008.

If you want a Jaguar on the cheap, the X-Type is the way to get into one -- but doesn't mean you should do it. It may be a pleasant enough daily companion for those fixated on "leaping" hood ornaments, but entry-luxury car shoppers with an eye for detail will be put off by its overall lack of refinement. The bottom line is that newer, better engineered competitors offer more value for the money. We recommend that you check them out first.

Used Jaguar X-Type Models

The Jaguar X-Type was produced from 2002-'08. Available as a sedan and later Sportwagon (beginning in '05), the X-Type featured Jaguar's classic exterior styling cues, with flowing lines, hooded oval headlights, a rectangular grille and elegantly arched roof. All were meant to recall the elegant XJ-series sedans.

Originally, Jaguar offered X-Type buyers the choice of a 194-horsepower 2.5-liter V6 or a 3.0-liter V6 (first rated at 231 hp and later 227). A five-speed manual gearbox was available, but most buyers still ordered the five-speed automatic transmission. Note that Jaguar dropped the 2.5 model altogether after the 2005 model year (the smaller engine was never available on the Sportwagon). All-wheel drive, which helps to improve traction in wet or snowy conditions, was always standard.

Like most small luxury cars, the Jaguar X-Type was comfortable for up to four passengers but cramped for five. Buyers should also note that the car's dramatic roof line made for tighter headroom than in some other entry-luxury compacts. The Sportwagon at least provided a bit more rear headroom than the sedan, and up to 50 cubic feet of storage space out back when the split rear seat was folded down. On both the sedan and wagon, the rear door openings were on the small side, making ingress and egress difficult.

Our editors were generally put off by the X-Type's interior, which had an unfortunate blend of traditional Jaguar elements -- wood veneers, supple leather upholstery and a restrained use of chrome trim -- and mundane plastic parts more appropriate for a Ford rental. We also noted build quality problems on early models. Things improved somewhat following a 2004 freshening, so if you feel absolutely compelled by the X-Type, we'd at least recommend sticking with the examples produced for that model year or later. Also, features like satellite radio and Bluetooth were added in its twilight years.

On the road, the Jaguar X-Type offered a comfortable ride for the most part, but the suspension transmitted too much harshness over bumps. Handling was tepid as entry-level luxury sedans and wagons go, and the all-wheel-drive system was slow to transfer power when wheel slip occurred. Acceleration was passable, but hardly thrilling on a car with a mid-$30Ks price tag.

Overall reliability was never impressive on the Jaguar X-Type, specifically during early model years.

User Reviews:

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  Great driving car - 2004 Jaguar X-Type
  By BSUE - August 30 - 2:00 am

  This car is everything I expected it to be. My X looks good and handles really great! I feel like a race car driver when Im on the highway.

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  The worst car Ive ever owned - 2002 Jaguar X-Type
  By Ed - August 15 - 5:43 pm

  My car loves to spend time getting service. Its been at the dealer for service 10 months of the 48 months Ive owned the car. I cant remember the many new parts it has but you can say they have rebuilt the thing. Nobody can deny is beautiful but is a piece of junk.

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  Flawless - 2003 Jaguar X-Type
  By H Pharzd - August 2 - 9:50 am

  The ride is excellent for a small vehicle. The all wheel drive and size makes it a luxury compact. Easy to park, drive... All service for the vehicle is included. Everytime the car is serviced it is completely detailed at no extra cost. I have wanted a Jaguar since 1975. I have always liked their looks. The Jaguar is 3 years old and I still get compliments on it. If you are looking for a respected people car buy a Jaguar. If you like harsh ride and odd controls buy German.

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  Jag X type 3.0 - 2003 Jaguar X-Type
  By scotts954 - July 30 - 10:00 am

  overall best car I have every bought.

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  Excellent - 2003 Jaguar X-Type
  By tdk - July 30 - 10:00 am

  This car is superior to all others tested in the $30-40k range: Acura TL/CL: Minuses - head room, front wheel drive, sound system, whiny engine, suspension dampening. 3 series BMW: Minuses - Inferior sound system, cabin size-especially width. Jaguar much more car for the money. Volvo: Nice for additional$10k. The X-Series Jaguar is an almost perfect combination of sports/luxury sedan.

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  RRW Jaguar - 2003 Jaguar X-Type
  By Ron Williams - July 30 - 10:00 am

  Since purchasing my Jaguar, I have had some improvement install on it that makes my Jaguar take notice. Other word, it is the only one in the country like it.

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  Why would you want this car? - 2002 Jaguar X-Type
  By Jgrnaut - July 22 - 2:00 am

  The name Jaguar conjures up images of refined elegance and bold styling. After driving the X-Type, the words Jaguar and “refined elegance” seems to fit together like Shaq in a Mazda Miata. When you sit in the cockpit, you understand why it is priced so cheap (for a Jaguar.) I think there was a shortage of quality leather when the car was built because most of the surroundings were made of plastic, high quality plastic I’m sure, but never the less plastic. Once I stepped on the gas it seemed like I had 4 sumo-wrestlers in the back and a few in the trunk. On the good side, the key is really neat and it has that cool leaping jaguar on the hood.

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  Worst Car Ive Ever Owned - 2002 Jaguar X-Type
  By Ted Watson - July 21 - 8:13 am

  I purchased this car new in August of 02. The first week set the tone - it went back to the shop for a leaky oil cooler. Since then it has been in the shop 20+ times for a total of months and months. It the last year alone it has stranded me three times. You name it, its had it repaired/replaced - oil leaks (still), new front and rear suspension, radio, gauges replaced, computers, xeon headlights, door panels, cooling hoses, door latches (over and over), rattles,squeaks, etc, etc. My warranty is up in 4K miles, so Im car shopping. However, I will never, ever, buy another Jaguar!!!!!

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  Baby Jag - 2002 Jaguar X-Type
  By mary Turner - July 1 - 3:16 pm

  The car is exceptional!! What I dont understand is why only the negative responses seem to be posted. This car is not the typical Jag. It is sporty and fun. All the safety features are very comforting. It is all that and then some.

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  Nice car for the price - 2004 Jaguar X-Type
  By SouthCarolinaGuy - June 30 - 3:20 am

  Ive leased this car for the past 39 months. I love the styling, smooth ride. The AWD just hugs the road. Turning, parking,etc. all great. I feel safe driving this car. Great visibility all around. I have not been pleased with the workmanship. My dash vents have popped up, the cloth covering on the roof support along the windsheld is wrinkling, the lighted mirror on the passenger visor wont stay up - flops down when opened. The covering for the driver-side rear view mirror disappeared - assume it just fell off. The oil pan gasket had a leak that was repaired under warranty. Back seat is tight, but I rarely have passengers there.